Hey Folks. I have a 1973 Ford Mustang w. a 1974 302 ci designated for the Maverick/Comet/Falcon. Just spoke to my mechanic who found that the oil pressure sending unit is unplugged. He informed me that these engines have a bad track record of low oil pressure at idle due to worn main bearings. He is going to take a mechanical oil pressure reading just to be safe. He also informed me that if the oil pressure is low, that is a tell tale sign that the engine will have to be rebuilt. Is this a problem generally known among Maverick/Comet owners? Just to ensure accuracy/awareness, the casting number is: D4DE8015BA. Thanks for your expertise in advance, everyone.
In 50+ years of owning small & big block Fords, that's news to me. If it'll idle 15-20 psi when hot, it's fine. As whether the block casting ID is Mustang, Torino, Maverick, etc it makes no difference. Same block was generally used across all lines, including light trucks. That Id changes from year to year, the '72 & '73 302 had a Torino designation. If yours is a late '73, it possible the '74 castings were already in use. Was common for 400 & 351M to have oil pressure issues.
The only thing my old Ford service manual says about oil pressure is that you should have at least 20 psi at 2,000 rpm. Doesn't mention anything about other pressures or rpm. The #1 main bearing has the biggest effect on oil pressure, we used to make that half a thousandths tighter than the rest.
Wives tale. Ford small block bearings are just as durable as any other engines. But like any engine it could be worn and needs an overhaul or full rebuild
Main reason for this was where the pressure sensor was located. It was at the rear of the block above the rear main, the farthest location in the oil galleries from the pump.
OK you didn't. Doesn't make me think any different. Buying & selling used cars I had a couple 400 with the low pressure problem at idle, never a Cleveland or 429/460
